LDA Design on Battersea Power Station

Above: landscaping and planting at Battersea Power Station development - image courtesy : Neil Speakman/Maple Studio

Ben Walker, Director at LDA Design and head of the firm's London office, will be joining our Lambeth Palace Library event to discuss his design work on the Battersea Power Station development project.

The forum will focus on particular destinations that are set to grow the visitor economy in London and help attract talent from abroad to work at neighbouring science innovation centres. Battersea is well connected to developments at Lambeth Palace Library and Guys' and St Thomas' Hospital.

From the 1930's to the 1980's, Battersea Power Station was a working power station. At its peak, the Station was supplying a fifth of London's electricity, including to some of London's most recognisable landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace.

The Grade II listed Battersea Power Station is now open as one of London's new exciting shopping and leisure destinations. The legendary London landmark and surrounding area has been brought back to life as one of the most innovative mixed use neighbourhoods in London.

Ben describes delivering the redevelopment of the Station over the past eleven years as one of the proudest moments in his career at LDA Design.

He said:

'As a designer, I truly believe great design can be the most beautiful and simplistic thing in the world. I think it has the power to change, improve and revolutionise space and behaviour, all starting with a pencil and an appreciation of place. Our job, in a world still working out what post-pandemic looks like, is to ensure we offer the best, to everyone. Great design comes from what people want and hope for and is influenced by their lived experiences.'

The new shopping destination inside the Power Station and along the grand pedestrian high street, Electric Boulevard, brings together a mix of high-end fashion brands, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, complementing the existing offering at Circus West Village.

The Chimney Lift at Battersea Power Station is a one of a kind experience taking visitors to the top of the North West chimney for 360-degree views of London's skyline. The Capital's first art'otel in also open with 164 rooms designed by award-winning Spanish artist and interior designer, Jaime Hayon.

The environment has also been a key consideration in the redevelopment of the site, its heritage, with innovative provision and use of energy. It is also home to some remarkable species of birds - a pair of Peregrine Falcons and Black Redstarts.